Uruguay's FM Slams US "Sphere of Influence" Doctrine in Latin America

Uruguay's Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin expressed concerns over the United States' revival of its sphere-of-influence doctrine in Latin America, citing potential legal violations and rising regional instability. The policy, first established in the 1800s, treats the region as a strategic area of interest for Washington. Lubetkin's comments came during an interview with Talk to Al Jazeera, where he discussed the implications of US strikes, Venezuela's situation, migration pressures, and China's growing role in the region. According to Lubetkin, the US is expanding its maritime operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, which critics argue may infringe on the sovereignty of Latin American nations. "This policy is a relic of the past, and it's not only outdated but also poses a threat to regional stability," Lubetkin said. "We need to work together to find solutions that respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations in the region." The US revival of its sphere-of-influence doctrine has been met with skepticism by many in Latin America, who see it as a challenge to their independence and self-determination. Venezuela, in particular, has been a focal point of US attention, with Washington imposing sanctions on the country's government and supporting opposition groups. Lubetkin acknowledged the complexities of the situation, saying, "Venezuela is a country that faces significant challenges, and we need to find a peaceful and diplomatic solution that respects the rights and interests of all parties involved." China's growing presence in the region has also been a topic of discussion, with some seeing it as a counterbalance to US influence. Lubetkin noted that China's involvement in Latin America is not necessarily a negative development, saying, "China's investment in the region can bring benefits, such as infrastructure development and economic growth. However, we need to ensure that these investments are transparent and respect the sovereignty of the countries involved." The situation in Latin America is further complicated by migration pressures, with many countries in the region struggling to cope with the influx of migrants and refugees. Lubetkin emphasized the need for a coordinated regional response to address this issue, saying, "We need to work together to find solutions that respect the rights and dignity of migrants and refugees, while also ensuring the security and stability of our countries." As tensions in the region continue to rise, Lubetkin's comments serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges facing Latin America. With the US revival of its sphere-of-influence doctrine, China's growing presence, and Venezuela's ongoing crisis, the region is facing a period of significant uncertainty and instability.